Sandy Springs redevelopment survey has a twist to engage respondents

Sandy Springs has called a workshop at City Hall, Oct. 18, on redeveloping and revitalizing the community’s North End. CITY OF SANDY SPRINGS

Sandy Springs has called a workshop at City Hall, Oct. 18, on redeveloping and revitalizing the community’s North End. CITY OF SANDY SPRINGS

An interactive survey on redevelopment in Sandy Springs comes with a twist that is similar to an online dating site. The questionnaire by TSW planning firm uses language found in personals ads and has pop-up photographs of a completed mixed-use project that would be located on Roswell Road between Dalrymple Road and Roberts Drive.

An image of a townhouse that could possibly be located in a remodeled North River Shopping Center reads as, “I’m a bit old-fashioned but it makes me refined. My living space is large and can accommodate families. I like to be close to the street so I can walk anywhere.”

Another for small single-family homes reads as, “I like getting to know my neighbors, and my central green spaces and outgoing personality allow that. I like my alone time, too, so that’s why I like to have my own house, porch and small yard.”

Sandy Springs is considering redeveloping one of four shopping centers: North Springs Shopping Center, Northridge Shopping Center, North River Shopping Center and the former Loehmann’s Plaza.

Sandy Springs hired TSW in 2019 to conduct a study on the north end of the city to determine the best redevelopment plan. The current survey started June 1 ends Friday and allows residents to have input on project designs.

During the City Council meeting held on June 2, a resident described the survey as unhelpful and asked the city to provide an easier way for residents get answers on the potential projects options.

“I don’t really understand the long-term implications of all these different possibilities,” Mary Baron said. “What impact will they have on the existing community? How is the average person supposed to make an informed decision between so many vague options?”